A democracy sublime
American democracy is perhaps going through the toughest phase of its litmus tests ever, but its most eye-catching trait is that its forty-four previous heads of state have worked relentlessly hard to instil the state instruments with supreme democratic values. Moreover, the spearheads of its democratic government institutions have not only built a long-lasting tradition of establishing the value of equality, but also a tradition of fair, ethical and logical dissent over any leadership.
We have been closely watching these highly commendable attributes of good governance since the new president took over last month. Democracy has been too often exploited by those who would seek office to serve selfish interests, and we have witnessed how the American judicial system twice in the last two weeks has played a crucial landmark role in deterring such self-serving agendas. We have seen the sacking of an attorney general, countrywide street procession followed by bold attempts to block authoritarian and irrational presidential executive orders. Furthermore, we are also witnessing despite a fair election win-- how the judiciary and bureaucracy coupled with the public has all united to prevent an apparent leadership that has challenged Americas democratic values.
To cut a long story short, the character and integrity of the American leadership should be completely dependent upon the character and integrity of the American public. It is this awe-inspiring truth which is being repeatedly echoed everywhere in the face of a dictatorial attitude to practice presidential privileges. It has only become possible since all previous US leaderships have so profoundly fortified the core values jointly with the people. It has become an exemplary system of governance where core teachings of a government rulebook have visibly proven more important to its public office holders than money, social prestige and power.
It is right exactly here where nations where democracy barely exists by name must draw lessons. They must learn the rulers occupying the very corridors of power are never above the constitution. This got even emboldened when a federal judge recently commented: No one is above the law, not even the US President.
Having commented, he not only restrained a week-old executive order temporarily barring refugees and nationals from seven Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States but had made a milestone display for what America stands for: a democracy which despite all creed and colour believes in equal rights adhering to the principles of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Indeed, a democracy sublime.
